Investigtators rule out natural casues for the start of the Black Forest Fire.

Investigtators have ruled out natural casues for the start of the Black Forest Fire.

“With a high degree of certainty, we have ruled out any natural cause for the fire, such as lightning. Through the use of a CBI canine trained to detect accelerants, as well as specialized equipment and other investigative efforts, we have discovered no obvious signs of an accelerant, although it cannot be ruled out completely. Investigators are considering any number of intentional or accidental causes to the fire such as mechanical sources like sparks from machinery or hot components on motors and exhaust systems,” according to Lieutenant Jeff Kramer, Public Information Officer, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

“Since the start of the Black Forest Fire on June 11, 2013, investigators from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office have led the effort to determine where the fire started and its cause.

“They have been assisted by the U.S. Forest Service, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), and the Aurora Fire Department. Although the cause of the fire has not yet been determined, investigators have identified the area of origin in a wooded area; the specific location cannot be revealed at this time,” Kramer said.

“Investigators have made great progress and have gathered many items of evidence and other valuable pieces of information. Much of the information and evidence has been obtained through numerous interviews, processing the area of origin, and the execution of multiple search warrants. Search warrants can be valuable in propelling a case forward, but are equally helpful in ruling out properties or people within the scope of an investigation as well.

Any investigative activities seen at a single home does not mean it is a home or area of stronger interest than any other,” Kramer said.

As the case moves forward, investigators will be busy analyzing the information available to them to determine the cause of the fire.

“In the interest of the integrity of the investigation, specific details about evidence and search warrants cannot be shared but Sheriff Terry Maketa is pleased with the current progress and will release additional details when it’s prudent to do so,” Kramer said.

Anyone with information about the cause of the fire is encouraged to call the tip line at 719-444-8393 or email blackforestfiretipline@elpasoco.com.